Men Against Fire The Problem of Battle Command

Men Against Fire: The Problem of Battle Command by S. L. A. Marshall, published by University of Oklahoma Press in 2000, is an illustrated work that delves into the dynamics of combat behavior among soldiers. Drawing from his experiences as a veteran of World War I and a combat historian during World War II, Marshall presents a compelling analysis of the firing rates among infantry soldiers in battle. He reveals that, historically, only a fraction of soldiers engaged in combat, a finding that challenged conventional military understanding at the time.

In this edition, readers will find an exploration of Marshall’s groundbreaking research, which includes interviews conducted after combat in both the European and Pacific theaters of World War II. The book discusses his proposed changes to infantry training aimed at increasing the effectiveness of American soldiers in future conflicts. Additionally, Marshall’s studies during the Korean War highlighted significant improvements in firing rates, illustrating the impact of his recommendations. Covering subjects such as military history and military science, this 215-page volume provides insights into the intersection of technology, training, and soldier performance in warfare.